Sandpoint officials are inviting residents to review proposed zoning updates designed to balance residential growth with historic preservation in the downtown core.
The city will host an open house on Tuesday, Oct. 6, from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Sandpoint Community Hall, located at 204 S. First Ave. The event allows the public to examine planning materials and offer feedback on code changes developed by City Hall over the past 14 months.
The proposed regulations seek to create a “true mixed-use core” by increasing residential density while maintaining the area’s historic character. Key provisions include a 40-foot height limit for structures within the downtown historic district overlay. The updates also strengthen requirements for exterior modifications, such as awnings and windows, ensuring new developments blend with the existing streetscape.
City Planner Bill Dean emphasized the need for regulatory tools to protect community character during development. Speaking at a Sept. 15 workshop, Dean noted that zoning provides mechanisms to preserve special features amidst change.
“We’d like to have some better tools in the toolbox to preserve it,” Dean said regarding the fear that new construction might not align with what residents value about the city.
The Oct. 6 gathering follows a Sept. 15 workshop that included planners, commissioners from the Arts, Culture and Historic Preservation Commission (ACHP) and Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z), downtown business owners, and citizens.
Dean stated that the rules establish a baseline standard to ensure future generations see the same environment as today. “[P]art of what these rules establish are a baseline standard … so that our grandkids and our great-grandkids can expect to see the same type of environment that you see today,” he said.
The Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to consider a completed draft of the changes at a public hearing on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers at 1123 Lake St. Commissioners will then make a recommendation to the City Council.
A final decision on the zoning updates is expected in December.